Overview: The Maltese has a large amount of energy and enjoys playing with its owner. Additionally, it likes the company of other dogs and pets. It will announce the presence of strangers which makes this breed a good watchdog. This canine is relatively easy to train and enjoys learning. It does take owner dedication for grooming. The coat of the Maltes resists cold temperatures well.

Temperament: Living up to its expectations, the Maltese is indeed a wonderful lap dog. However, it also enjoys running and playing on a regular basis. It may be aggressive toward animals larger than itself and even challenge them. The Maltese is shy around strangers and some may bark a lot.

History: It is unknown when the Maltese was bred however it is considered one of the most ancient toy breeds from Europe and even considered one of the oldest of any breed. There are writings about the Maltese dog from the island of Malta dating from around 300 B.C. Also, there is Greek art also depicting this breed. Even though many of these dogs were exported out of Malta, there was still a large amount that were pure bred in Malta for many centuries. Originally, the Maltese came in many colors but it was the white hair that was always favored among the people. Once this dog was transported to England during the early 14th century its popularity soared among the upper-class women. Even though this breed became popular there were so very few of them being bred that it appears they began dying off. A painting titled The Lion From Malta - Last of His Race suggests that this dog was in danger of becoming extinct. Not long after this, two Maltese were brought to Queen Victoria. Eventually this pair reached different people who started to breed them resulting in the first Maltese bred and shown in England. This dog was first shown in the United States as the Maltese Lion Dog near the end of the 19th century. This name perhaps originated because dog fanciers would trim the hair of this dog to resemble a lion look. Over time the Maltese grew in popularity and is now one of the most popular toy breeds.

Names: The Maltese is also known by the Bichon Maltiase.

Groups: The Maltese was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 and assigned to the Toy Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Maltese can be 9 to 10 inches in height and can weigh between 4 and 7 lb. The single coat of this dog covers its body from head to toe. The hair is long and flat with a silky touch. The color that it comes in is white. It may however have a bit of tan or lemon color on the ears.

Care: The exercise needed can easily be taken care of simply by playing with this dog indoors for a small while or a short walk. The Maltese shouldn't live outdoors. The coat of this dog needs to be combed every two days or so.

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